Rema’s commercial success in 2023 has been nothing short of spectacular. Both internationally and locally, he has carved a niche that showcases his undeniable talent. With his chart-topping hits, it’s clear that Rema is not just a passing phase but a musical prodigy.
When Rema won the Headies Next Rated Award in 2019, he declared himself as 'the future of Afrobeats'. Four years later, he won the Best Male Artiste and Song of the Year awards at the 16th Headies, validating his declaration.
Following his wins at the Headies, he won the inaugural award for the Best Afrobeats category of the MTV Video Music Awards, and Artist of the Year at AFRIMMA. He also won Song of The Year at the inaugural Trace Awards which was held on October 21, 2023, in Kigali.
Since debuting with his eponymous EP in 2019, Rema has consistently proved his mettle. With multiple No. 1 songs on various charts and an unwavering presence in top positions, his trajectory is a testament to his evolving artistry and the dedication of his fan base.
A look at his streaming numbers suggests that his success at home is as palpable as his international feats. With a whopping 146m on-demand streams in the first three quarters of 2023 alone, making him the 9th overall artist in streaming numbers, Rema’s international acclaim is being replicated at home.
‘Charm’ ‘Soweto (Remix)’, and ‘Holiday' are his top 10 entries on the Official Nigeria Top 100 this year. Since his charting debut, he boasts two No. 1 songs, while 'Ginger Me' and 'Charm' remain radio favourites.
While his collaboration with several international acts like FKA Twigs, Don Toliver, AJ Tracey, and Offset might suggest a more international focus, Rema continues to retain a very strong sway in Nigeria.
Recently, the artist announced a new EP titled "RAVAGE'’ scheduled for release on October 27, 2023.
For all intents and purposes, the EP seems to be a stamp of the unprecedented international success he has so far enjoyed in 2023.
Observers might be curious about what sonic direction the “RAVAGE” EP would explore. Would it take on a more international leaning that sees Rema operate in a space he seems to be conquering? Or would he retain the Afrobeats essence that earned him global success?
Given his track record of versatility, one can most likely expect a blend of both musical genres.
The projections for the first week of Rema’s new EP are nothing short of remarkable. Based on his track record, the EP is set for staggering numbers. Already boasting hits that have spent weeks on end in the Top 10, including a 13-week streak for ‘Charm,’ the projection is positive. While he hasn't secured a No. 1 album yet, the success of 'Rave & Roses (Deluxe)’, which peaked at No.2, suggests that this milestone isn't far off.
With expectations ranging from 9 to 11 million streams in the first week, Rema is poised to surpass the first-week success of the 'Rave and Roses(Deluxe)' which logged a staggering 8 million streams.
Given his impressive global commercial success and his career trajectory, Rema appears to have joined the exclusive league of Nigerian artists who are superstars both at home and abroad.
His upcoming ‘RAVAGE’ EP is set to be a victory lap for the artist who delivered Afrobeats' greatest international hit and a continuation of an unfolding journey.